Apple is investigated over Ipad 4G claims in UK

THE ADVERTISING STANDARDS AUTHORITY (ASA) is investigating Apple's claims that the Ipad is a 4G device in the UK, the BBC reports.

There's no denying that the new Apple Ipad is a 4G device, but it can only access this high-speed connectivity in Canada and the US. The ASA reportedly has received a number of complaints regarding Apple's claims that the tablet has 4G capability on its UK website.

Following complaints from unsatisfied customers, Apple claims to have removed 4G references from a web page and its promotional videos, but the Apple store still advertises "Wi-Fi + 4G" Ipad devices alongside the logos of the major UK operators.

"If it appears that the problem claims we asked Apple to remove are still appearing, we will investigate these new complaints," an ASA spokesperson was quoted as saying.

If Everything Everywhere gets its way, 4G could be arriving in the UK later this year. However, the frequencies that will be used are different from those in the US and Canada, which means that the so called 'Ipad 4G' won't be able to connect to high-speed UK networks in its present configuration.

This latest development follows a similar case in Australia, where the country's regulators also accused Apple of misleading consumers with its '4G' claims. The Cupertino company agreed to give refunds to Aussie buyers that thought they were misled by the device's branding, but it's yet to be seen whether a similar scheme will be brought to the UK.